Kamarajar Port is enhancing its coastal power supply facility, encouraging ships to switch to cleaner electricity while docked. Launched in November 2024, the initiative aligns with India’s sustainable port operations goals. This transition reduces emissions and fuel consumption, with a government mandate for compliance by 2035, ensuring widespread adoption.
Container cargo volume in India is expected to grow by 8% this fiscal year, reaching 380 million tonnes, amid challenges like US tariffs and disruptions in the Panama Canal. While coal volumes may decline, port expansions and increased transshipment activities are anticipated to bolster overall growth in the sector.
The Mormugao Port Authority is launching a transformative dredging project to increase its capacity, deepening the approach channel from 14.4 to 19.5 meters for Capesize vessels. Alongside, Berth 9 will be revamped into a modern multi-cargo facility, enhancing Mormugao’s role in India’s maritime trade landscape. Construction aims to finish within 24 months.
VOC Port has commenced construction of Multi-Cargo Berth No. 10, celebrated by Chairperson Susanta Kumar Purohit at a groundbreaking ceremony. The berth, extending 445 meters with a draft accommodating vessels of up to 125,000 DWT, aims to bolster cargo handling capacity and strengthen the port’s pivotal role in India’s maritime sector.
Kamarajar Port Limited (KPL) has made history by becoming India’s first port to engage in automobile transshipment. On August 27, 2025, it handled its inaugural shipment of 550 cars from Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, marking a significant step in enhancing operational capabilities and positioning itself as a key hub in the global trade sector.
India is rapidly transforming its electric vehicle (EV) landscape, marked by Prime Minister Modi inaugurating Maruti Suzuki’s new facility in Gujarat. This week, the first domestically produced electric cars were unveiled, set to reach over 100 international markets, with APM Terminals Pipavav Port exporting 1,534 eVITARA units to the UK and Germany.
Kandla International Container Terminal (KICT) achieved a remarkable milestone by surpassing 4 million tonnes in cargo handling on August 27, 2025, showcasing enhanced efficiency and operational reliability. This accomplishment is attributed to effective teamwork and strong customer relationships, solidifying Deendayal Port’s status as a key player in India’s maritime trade.
During his visit to Japan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the Quad’s vital role in maritime security and disaster relief. He emphasized the partnership’s contributions to humanitarian assistance and technology, asserting it has become a “force for global good.” Modi also underscored the importance of the India-Japan alliance for regional stability.
Cochin Shipyard has begun constructing the Pelagic Wahoo, a sophisticated commissioning service operation vessel for Pelagic Wind Services. This cutting-edge vessel, measuring 93 meters and designed for sustainability, will accommodate 120 personnel. With advanced hybrid propulsion and automation, it highlights Cochin Shipyard’s commitment to innovation and environmentally-friendly practices.
Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata, has partnered with IIT Kharagpur to develop a master plan for the Hooghly Riverbank, aiming to boost tourism. Chairman Rathendra Raman announced plans for a dedicated river cruise terminal, echoing successful models in Varanasi and Assam, with tenders to be issued soon.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways held an Ambassadors’ Roundtable Meet in New Delhi, gathering envoys from 28 countries to prepare for India Maritime Week 2025. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal emphasized India’s goal of becoming a global maritime hub with a $1 trillion investment roadmap, focusing on sustainable shipping initiatives.
Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd (GRSE) forecasts significant growth in shipbuilding, fueled by strong defense procurement and government backing. The company recently delivered its 110th ship and secured the L1 bid for the ₹25,000-crore Corvette program, enhancing its order backlog and expanding ship repair operations and non-defense divisions.
The VOC Port in southern India has experienced remarkable growth in LPG handling, with a 40.01% increase in 2025–26. By July, it processed 133,520 tonnes, up from 95,364 tonnes last year. With significant upgrades in facilities, the port aims to accommodate larger vessels, enhancing efficiency to meet rising energy demands.
Vizhinjam port is projected to handle 1.3 to 1.4 million containers by December 2026, as announced by Minister V N Vasavan. Since its operations began on December 3, 2024, it has already processed over 1 million containers, significantly exceeding initial expectations and establishing itself as a key player in maritime trade.
The India Maritime Week will occur in Mumbai from October 27 to 31, drawing nearly 100,000 delegates from over 100 countries. Shipping Secretary T.K. Ramachandran emphasized the event’s goal of fostering dialogue and innovative, sustainable policies, with a target to create investment opportunities worth one lakh crore rupees.
